What Is a Support Group?

Support groups are regularly scheduled, free gatherings of persons who are providing care for persons with Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder. The groups are facilitated by persons trained by the Alzheimer's Association and are held throughout the state in community-based settings. The primary purpose of these groups is to provide education/knowledge about the disease and caregiver skills. The combination of education and emotional support should enable caregivers to feel better at the end of the meeting. Groups remind caregivers they are not alone, give them a chance to say what they are feeling in a supportive environment, learn new strategies and resources in the community and foster support networks. Each group has its own character and each meeting is different. It may take some time to find the right group.

Get the emotional support you need! The schedule consists of Alzheimer's specific support groups which focus exclusively on the challenges and concerns of caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's disease or a related disorder, as well as, general caregiver support groups which provide support to caregivers of persons with any long-term health disorder. Many other long-term care facilities, adult day programs, assisted living facilities or senior centers may provide such groups as well. Check to see if there is a group close to you that fits your needs. Click here to download a listing of support groups offered throughout Rhode Island.Be sure to contact the group leader before attending group.

Connect with Others Online

The Alzheimer’s Association message boards and chat rooms provide a virtual online community for persons with Alzheimer's, caregivers and care providers. Our message boards have thousands of registered members from around the United States and thousands more who refer to the stories and information that is available 24 hours a day.